ENEMY CRUELTIES (RECORD).

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether a record is being kept of the names of Nazis, Fascists and their allies responsible for deeds of cruelty and oppression committed against defenceless men, women and children in conquered territories, contrary to the established custom and recognised practice of warfare, with a view to future proceedings as and when possible?

No, Sir. It is difficult to obtain information in present circumstances as to the responsibilities of particular individuals. No doubt such information may in due course become available to His Majesty's Government or to the Allied Governments concerned, but it would be premature to make any statement as to the use to which they may eventually desire to put it.

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind the deterrent effect which such a statement might have with regard to these deeds of cruelty, which are shocking the civilised world, and ought not a record to be kept so that after the war it could be sorted out and a decision taken whether prosecutions should follow?